As a dietitian, I’m always fascinated by new research that challenges our understanding of nutrition. A recent article in New Scientist has sparked a wild but intriguing idea: what if humans (like some plants and microbes) could absorb essential nutrients directly from the air?
The piece explores the possibility that tiny particles in the atmosphere, such as nitrogen compounds, might be absorbed through our lungs or even our skin, supplementing the nutrients we get from food. While this sounds like science fiction, there’s some surprising science behind it. Certain bacteria and plants already do this, pulling nitrogen from the air to support growth. Could humans have a similar, albeit minor, capability?
What Does the Science Say?
At the moment, the evidence is speculative. The article highlights studies on airborne nutrients and their potential interaction with human biology, but there’s no solid proof that this contributes meaningfully to our dietary needs. Most of our nutrients – proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals -come from what we eat and drink. Our digestive system is exquisitely designed to break down food, absorb what we need, and excrete the rest; and let’s be honest, if nutrients were absorbed through breathing, nutritional deficiencies would likely be much rarer than they actually are.
That said, the idea isn’t entirely far-fetched. Our lungs do absorb gases like oxygen, and some medications are delivered via inhalation. Could trace nutrients hitch a ride?
Why This Matters for Nutrition
If future research confirms that airborne nutrient absorption plays even a minor role in human health, it could reshape how we think about malnutrition, environmental health, and dietary requirements. Imagine a world where air pollution doesn’t just harm us but also carries tiny nutritional benefits?! We potentially could capitalise on this and provide airsprays which are fortified with vitamins and minerals if this is the case- although I wont hold my breath (pun intended).
For now, though, the takeaway is simple: eat a balanced diet. Even if absorbing nutrients through the air is possible, it’s likely not going to be in any meaningful quantity and likely won’t make much of a difference to our health (sorry breatharians).
What do you think? Could there be more to the air we breathe than just oxygen? Or is this just a flight of fancy? Let me know your thoughts!
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